Yup, less than 48 hours and 8 miles from My Day.
This time is much different than the first date, a little over a year ago. No fear, eager to be fully me, and get on with my life.
I want to thank my therapists, friends, and Susan's people for getting me here. Wow! I <3 you all!
Awe! Good Luck Hon! So happy for you.
Monica
Good luck, if I was arriving there earlier I would have offered to come and said hi, but I won't be down in Phoenix area tell 1/28. Hugs
Mariah
I am still in the area and am now well familiar with the hospital. Let me know if you need anything.
Hope it all goes smoothly Hon.
Thank you!
Doing great emotionally, but dammit woke up this morning with sinus crud and a sore throat...any advice on how to fix this? I suspect it's the change in weather, from cold and rainy Seattle to warm and dry Arizona...
ETA: A small bowl of oatmeal and a glass of apple juice helped a lot... :)
It will clear out quickly Beth Andrea. Needless to say I didn't have the drainage issue I have up here down there so it should clear quickly. A good hot shower probably would help too I suspect. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 11, 2017, 07:23:44 AM
Thank you!
Doing great emotionally, but dammit woke up this morning with sinus crud and a sore throat...any advice on how to fix this? I suspect it's the change in weather, from cold and rainy Seattle to warm and dry Arizona...
ETA: A small bowl of oatmeal and a glass of apple juice helped a lot... :)
Thanks Dena...yes, especially after I got up and was moving around...it may have been this super comfy bed with nearly new sheets at the "AirBnB" we're staying at.
Best wishes Beth!!
We'll keep the cold rainy weather up here in Seattle and away from Phoenix. You are going to do great, and it sounds like you are in good hands. :)
-Sarah
Good luck, best wishes, everything will go smoothly.
Done with the pre-op with Dr. Ley, got my goodie bag and instructions! I have 22 hours to go!
It's a good thing they don't make the bag out of anything edible...
Good luck. I am sending good thoughts your way.
Congrats girl. You've got this. Good luck tomorrow. ❤️
Congratulations, and best wishes for amazing results! 😊
On a gurney with heating tube, iv, and nurses orbiting around me and Stacie!
Pretty tired, but in good spirits!
About 2 hours to go... :)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1360.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr653%2FBeth53%2FIMG_2038_zps16enxf1n.jpg&hash=a533cf74c2232c406dda30c6f720769ad03f1fd1) (http://s1360.photobucket.com/user/Beth53/media/IMG_2038_zps16enxf1n.jpg.html)
ETA: No, 1.5 hours from now (1030am mountain time).
You must have had it done already by now. I wish you a nice recovery. :)
Good luck, I hope all went well. Hugs
Mariah
Good luck as you are probably in the OR now. Keep us updated as you recovery,
Delays, delays...now we're looking at a 3pm mountain time start.
good luck
That can happen. I was delayed a bit too before starting. I suspect the person in front of me took longer than planned. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 12, 2017, 03:29:12 PM
Delays, delays...now we're looking at a 3pm mountain time start.
So I just woke up! I feel pretty darn good! I have this comfort level is probably a three out of 10 and I am... Wow! Have a very good very good feeling about this whole thing!
Current time is just after midnight... And I am still under a bit of influence of pain meds but yeah it's awesome LOL oh LOL
You came to a bit quicker than I did in the end. Congrats. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Mariah on January 12, 2017, 04:40:32 PM
That can happen. I was delayed a bit too before starting. I suspect the person in front of me took longer than planned. Hugs
Mariah
The person ahead of me had to have grafts, which take a couple of hours if needed. Sometimes they have to make that decision in the OR, so it comes as a surprise.
I am still feeling super about this whole thing! I no longer have the dangling thingies! :) FREEDOM!!
Just wait, the real freedom begins when the sutures, packing, and Catheter come out. Then you will know what freedom is like. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 13, 2017, 05:11:44 AM
The person ahead of me had to have grafts, which take a couple of hours if needed. Sometimes they have to make that decision in the OR, so it comes as a surprise.
I am still feeling super about this whole thing! I no longer have the dangling thingies! :) FREEDOM!!
Quote from: Mariah on January 13, 2017, 05:14:20 AM
Just wait, the real freedom begins when the sutures, packing, and Catheter come out. Then you will know what freedom is like. Hugs
Mariah
I bet! This first freedom is certainly emotional, knowing in my heart that "it" is no longer obvious...very similar to the orchi after the "boys" were known to be gone!
So very happy! And seem to be less under the influence of the meds!
That is normal too. That first night I was out of it. Dena and my fiancé Jamie were watching over, but I remember almost nothing now from that night. Like you I was awake early that next day since I slept most of the day before off. Congrats. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 13, 2017, 05:21:40 AM
I bet! This first freedom is certainly emotional, knowing in my heart that "it" is no longer obvious...very similar to the orchi after the "boys" were known to be gone!
So very happy! And seem to be less under the influence of the meds!
Pain has been about 3/10, so I haven't pressed the pain med button even once overnight. I go to pain pills later today.
Only issue is my sugar level on admission was 128 (iirc), so I'm on a carb restriction diet which means no cimminin roll! :(
glad to hear you are doing well. Congrats and welcome to freedom.
As a friend told me back in the day: "Welcome to the vagina club." (I have interesting friends)
-S
The worst time for me was last night after the bowel prep...I'm prone to anxiety attacks and I had a doozy of one! All fears and concerns I had about post-op self-care, how the loss of That Part might affect me psychologically, possible relationship(s), etc.
Honestly if my wife hadn't been with me, I would've fled the state. I also called my "complex care manager" at my health insurance and left a message, which helped immensely (especially when she called back first thing in the morning!) I know some ladies can do this solo, but damn depression and anxiety are common, yet hellish mental health issues.
Susan's and FaceBook were also helpful, and I think my Teddy bear would've been helpful also.
Yes they are, I was in contact during my time in the hospital as well with the complex care manager as well with the insurance. She called to check up on how I was doing. Hang in there, it does get better. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 13, 2017, 08:44:42 AM
The worst time for me was last night after the bowel prep...I'm prone to anxiety attacks and I had a doozy of one! All fears and concerns I had about post-op self-care, how the loss of That Part might affect me psychologically, possible relationship(s), etc.
Honestly if my wife hadn't been with me, I would've fled the state. I also called my "complex care manager" at my health insurance and left a message, which helped immensely (especially when she called back first thing in the morning!) I know some ladies can do this solo, but damn depression and anxiety are common, yet hellish mental health issues.
Susan's and FaceBook were also helpful, and I think my Teddy bear would've been helpful also.
Oh, it's already gotten better! (And, "last night" wasn't correct...last night was the surgery, so the anxiety hit the night before last!)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1279.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fy537%2FDevlynMarie%2FModstuff%2Fp120128b_zps5bb84833.jpg&hash=392b515c1c1b611e038eedc089df3bda42da5ccb)
Big hug! So happy for you, Beth! It's been a long road, and I'm glad to have walked some of it with you. :)
Hugs, Devlyn
Congratulations Beth!!!
This really has been one heck of a ride eh? Glad to have also shared some time and space here with you.
Rock on girlfriend.
Thanks all! Still have 8 nights/9 days to go...next big event here is Monday with The Grand Unwrapping!
^-^
Congrats Beth.....welcome to the club. You should be getting your decoder ring and secret handshake instructions soon.
Congratulations. I am glad you are doing well and I am happy for you.
Wow.
Stacie just left to go home. She was such an immense help, even got me an enchilada for dinner tonight from the Salty Señorita!! Yum!!
I'm laying here with a Cheshire cat smile! Pain is almost 1/10, IV is out, tomorrow leg compression stockings come off...and I get out of bed and "encouaged to begin ambulation."
Start of day 2... got out of bed, people changed sheets while I went to the potty...just leftover stuff from the bowel prep...yuk!
It hurt to sit up, then it hurt again to stand. Laying in bed I was bright and alert, by the time I finished standing it was like I was drunk...had to sit again, catch my breath, annnnd up we go.
Slowly toddled to the bathroom and got my pads changed, then toddled back to bed. Gentle tuck and roll allowed for a relatively pain-free bed mounting.
Doing bladder training and ambulation today.
I bet getting out of bed and moving around feels good though. Glad your doing so well. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 14, 2017, 10:35:49 AM
Start of day 2... got out of bed, people changed sheets while I went to the potty...just leftover stuff from the bowel prep...yuk!
It hurt to sit up, then it hurt again to stand. Laying in bed I was bright and alert, by the time I finished standing it was like I was drunk...had to sit again, catch my breath, annnnd up we go.
Slowly toddled to the bathroom and got my pads changed, then toddled back to bed. Gentle tuck and roll allowed for a relatively pain-free bed mounting.
Doing bladder training and ambulation today.
Getting out of bed was exhausting, and made me feel pretty drunk. When I got back in bed I felt very tired...but after a few minutes I was ready to try again!
Gotta wait for the nurse to show me how to cap and uncap the catheter! :)
You got this Beth! Rebuilding energy and some attention to detail as you recover and heal baby heal. Let the rest wash over you like a warm wave. ;D
Got up again, all by myself this time! Went to the door and asked if I could walk around a bit...a staff person went with me and we walked about 50 yards in a loop, ending at my room. Tired again, but getting better everytime!
Wish I were witty or entertaining, but I've always been more of a clinical person, not an entertainer. :P
You're still a class act Girl!
That is normal to start with. Your body has to get used to having your heart work that hard again. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 14, 2017, 11:03:19 AM
Getting out of bed was exhausting, and made me feel pretty drunk. When I got back in bed I felt very tired...but after a few minutes I was ready to try again!
Gotta wait for the nurse to show me how to cap and uncap the catheter! :)
Before you know it you will be walking around the entire floor. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 14, 2017, 12:21:16 PM
Got up again, all by myself this time! Went to the door and asked if I could walk around a bit...a staff person went with me and we walked about 50 yards in a loop, ending at my room. Tired again, but getting better everytime!
Wish I were witty or entertaining, but I've always been more of a clinical person, not an entertainer. :P
Beginning bladder training!!
I think it helped to not look down when I walked.
Well I've got this bladder training thing down pat, now just gotta do more laps--but not too many, too many causes swelling of delicate parts which are still healing.
Dena visited for awhile, very charming and sweet to spend time with! Thank you!
I made her giggle a number of times while she still has the packing in. >:-) That's evil of me. >:-)
So here I am, ~64 hours post-op. "Post op day 3", they call it. I'm going to get my drains (2) taken out, and continue walking and bladder training.
Pain is 0, unless I move about, then it goes to about a 1...enough to remind me that, yes, I had a surgery.
I did two consecutive laps in the hallway this morning, endurance is getting better...there is a dull ache in "that" area, mostly due to the vibrations sent up my legs as my feet hit the floor. Tolerable, I was even able to pick up the pace during the walk.
I got this!
Did my first #2 today, that should help with the upset tummy I've had the last day or two...
Tip to self: Just because you're on a 75g carb restricted diet, does NOT mean that you should order enough food to reach that number! It's not a goal, it's a limit. :-\
They took out the two drains just a few minutes ago...snipped 3-4 sutures then just pulled them out. The second one was the most uncomfortable, I could feel the inside tissue being dragged by the tube. < 2 seconds and it was done, no biggie.
When doing a #2 is #1 on your mind we gotta acknowledge we're old people, just had surgery or both, congratulations on your big move! ;D ;D ;D ;D
Getting drains out feels good afterwards but getting the catheter and packing out is absolutely wonderful.
Quote from: Tessa James on January 15, 2017, 12:26:18 PM
When doing a #2 is #1 on your mind we gotta acknowledge we're old people, just had surgery or both, congratulations on your big move! ;D ;D ;D ;D
It's a good thing you're not closer, or I'd throw my walker at you! LOL
(As an aside, I've always been really "into" guns, and in the last few months I've discovered black powder (muzzle loaders)...well today while watching a YouTube video I realized the only people I've seen take an interest in BP have been...well, older people. OMG! Am I in that stage of life already?!)
I am also experiencing a little spritzing around the cather when I drain the synthetic "crane"... I'm told this is a good thing because it means the bladder is doing what it's designed to do: make a mess from the crotch to the floor! (Yes I stand, because if I sit the suction from the catheter causes a weird+icky feeling inside)
Yes, I experienced the same thing, but I was doing more than just a little spritzing around the catheter. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 15, 2017, 08:41:10 PM
I am also experiencing a little spritzing around the cather when I drain the synthetic "crane"... I'm told this is a good thing because it means the bladder is doing what it's designed to do: make a mess from the crotch to the floor! (Yes I stand, because if I sit the suction from the catheter causes a weird+icky feeling inside)
Ah, post-op day #4 is done. Only exciting thing was I went outside for the first time since surgery and bought a small bag of Cheetos...one thing is for sure, it hasn't felt like 4 days, it feels like it's been 1, maybe 2 days. I was startled when I walked past admissions, where I'd done some paperwork. That seemed so long ago, almost dreamlike. It was 5 days ago...but between that day and the day after, an eternity happened.
Wow.
*giggles*
;D
I'm just very happy. Avatar pic is me, outside the surgery center.
Rocking that bag of Cheetos in the Sunshine, way so normal! Love to see you smiling with what I imagine is satisfaction and feeling complete. I was once part of delivering that dreamlike experience and had people occasionally tell me they were like la la for weeks. May you let the days float by as you gain strength and healing.
Well if it's anything like first starting HRT it'll be great! (And it is like starting HRT, only *MUCH* more so! LOL)
Nearing end of POD #5...did a lot less than I'd hoped. Went outside and got a brisket sandwich from the "BratHaus" across the street. I feel in love with the place, the atmosphere, small park-like setting, adult-sized Jenga games, and oh yes the food...if I were local I'd frequent this place so hard... :P
I was careful to not eat too much, but I started getting sleepy tired and headed back in. I changed into the gown and spent the rest of the day on bed rest, only now (6pm) getting up to do hallway laps. Oh well, when I need rest I listen to my body!
Tomorrow will be the biggest, most important day since surgery: The Unwrapping and Dilation 101.
*Hugs* and loves
I would expect they will around in the early afternoon. If that happens to be the case you will have 9 dilations in about 36 hours. It is worth it, but your first couple of days of dilation will take a lot out of you. Glad your doing so well. I guess it is a good thing I'm going to be about 45 min when traffic is bad from that place or I would gain weight. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 17, 2017, 07:18:20 PM
Well if it's anything like first starting HRT it'll be great! (And it is like starting HRT, only *MUCH* more so! LOL)
Nearing end of POD #5...did a lot less than I'd hoped. Went outside and got a brisket sandwich from the "BratHaus" across the street. I feel in love with the place, the atmosphere, small park-like setting, adult-sized Jenga games, and oh yes the food...if I were local I'd frequent this place so hard... :P
I was careful to not eat too much, but I started getting sleepy tired and headed back in. I changed into the gown and spent the rest of the day on bed rest, only now (6pm) getting up to do hallway laps. Oh well, when I need rest I listen to my body!
Tomorrow will be the biggest, most important day since surgery: The Unwrapping and Dilation 101.
*Hugs* and loves
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1360.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr653%2FBeth53%2FIMG_2082_zpsfcgebmov.jpg&hash=aa7193354086feed66ce718f3e32e4d78eb4e6e8) (http://s1360.photobucket.com/user/Beth53/media/IMG_2082_zpsfcgebmov.jpg.html)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1360.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr653%2FBeth53%2FIMG_2090_zpstm34flqn.jpg&hash=e97254a7ee3374368941f8ef701ba931e9a3922d) (http://s1360.photobucket.com/user/Beth53/media/IMG_2090_zpstm34flqn.jpg.html)
(They missed with the horseradish sauce)
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1360.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr653%2FBeth53%2FIMG_2087_zpstjzdmy4m.jpg&hash=c740f3a589b66ccaf3754de1e145f09ddd32699d) (http://s1360.photobucket.com/user/Beth53/media/IMG_2087_zpstjzdmy4m.jpg.html)
Adult-sized Jenga!
This place is literally across the street directly west of the GB surgery center... a little pricey but dayum I was so happy there...food, atmosphere, sun, and smiles! Worth every penny!
A funny thing happened on the way to the Unwrapping...
So here I am, lying in bed, waiting to be unwrapped (like a fine holiday present!). As I'm laying here, I'm looking at the ceiling with its various undulations and light fixtures...and then I see this:
(https://www.susans.org/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fi1360.photobucket.com%2Falbums%2Fr653%2FBeth53%2F49F9838E-F113-4C71-8DF5-6463B4B130EB_zps9dh6ju0p.jpg&hash=a73adf6a42f85d5c813a7cee15600d773c22929a) (http://s1360.photobucket.com/user/Beth53/media/49F9838E-F113-4C71-8DF5-6463B4B130EB_zps9dh6ju0p.jpg.html)
Is it me, or does that sorta resemble something most of us are somewhat familiar with?
;D :laugh:
Yay! Next big step, coming right up!
Unoacking and dilation #1 is done. No pain with stitches, once they were out I felt movement in the colon area but themat will wait.
It's swollen and stitched, but just like looking at an old fixer-upper house...."Wow! She's beautiful!"
Dilator went right in, no issues with the "inner wall" i heard about. 6" depth with no grafts...yeah, I'm happy.
Yay, congrats.
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 18, 2017, 10:45:13 AM
Unoacking and dilation #1 is done. No pain with stitches, once they were out I felt movement in the colon area but themat will wait.
It's swollen and stitched, but just like looking at an old fixer-upper house...."Wow! She's beautiful!"
Dilator went right in, no issues with the "inner wall" i heard about. 6" depth with no grafts...yeah, I'm happy.
Well you fixer upper, that sounds like a nice outing place to dine and, more importantly, a satisfying and successful unveiling and dilation. Wahoo for you!
Congratulations, it sounds like you are doing awesome.
Quote from: Rachel Lynn on January 18, 2017, 06:11:52 PM
Congratulations, it sounds like you are doing awesome.
I can't help it... I am what I am!
...With a little bit of help from my friends! :). Thank you so much!
Finished my one and only dilation #5 on time and within budget!
Now I get to sleep for a few hours...zzz...zZz...
Sleep is a good thing to do.
Here is to uneventful healing.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Thank you bunny!
A week ago today I had my GRS...today I climbed up and down 14 steps outside the hospital, walked a mile outside, browsed in a couple stores, and just finished my second dilation of the day.
Ice is all I've needed, except for last night...yesterday I started dilating and that first day Dr Ley (associate of Dr Meltzer) wants one to dilate 5x; my last dilation of the day was at 0200! And I was a bit sore down there...so I did ask for a small pain pill and it took care of that, and gave me my first good night's sleep since the day before surgery.
I'm doing pretty good all around, recovery-wise. Tomorrow I get my catheter out, and Saturday I fly home!
My clit is *very* sensitive, it's really irritating at this point LOL. (Note to others: note where they route the catheter tube...in my case it was actually touching the clit, so any movement was grating on my nerves. It's an easy fix, they just get new tape and relocate it).
Ok, well...hmm... I'm going to find out what happened to my lunch!
Beautiful here, 54^F, light wind, and a little overcast!
You almost make it sound easy and in fact i hope it is. You worked for this girl and i appreciate your sharing the ride with us. Most happy and gentle landings, you earned this.
Quote from: Tessa James on January 19, 2017, 05:39:40 PM
You almost make it sound easy and in fact i hope it is. You worked for this girl and i appreciate your sharing the ride with us. Most happy and gentle landings, you earned this.
I would say that for me, it has been mostly easy. Especially the first day or two after the surgery, getting out of bed was quite a delicate and yet painful experience. I am terrified of becoming addicted to pain killers though (several people I know went that route) so I refuse them unless it's really bad...getting out of (and into) bed was bad enough I probably could have taken some but I figured the pain was only the during the actual getting in/getting out, so no more than say, 10 seconds...not enough for a medication that lasts several hours.
I also try to stay positive..."this too shall pass" and "you can do this, it's all planned out by really smart people".
Would I do it again? If everything grew back as it was? Yeah, even knowing the pain and the fiery discomfort when you sense the urine going around the catheter while draining out the durgical tube...no one's mentioned THAT before, LOL!
Swelling is still coming down, so all in all I am on a good path.
Yay! Another 48 hours and I'll be....LEAVING...on a jet plane...don't know when I'll be back again... ::) <--me singing...
Oh wait, I do know. Second surgery is scheduled for late May!
So glad everything is going so well and congrats on having the secondary surgery already scheduled. I take it Dr. Ley is doing the follow up surgery too? Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 19, 2017, 05:59:40 PM
I would say that for me, it has been mostly easy. Especially the first day or two after the surgery, getting out of bed was quite a delicate and yet painful experience. I am terrified of becoming addicted to pain killers though (several people I know went that route) so I refuse them unless it's really bad...getting out of (and into) bed was bad enough I probably could have taken some but I figured the pain was only the during the actual getting in/getting out, so no more than say, 10 seconds...not enough for a medication that lasts several hours.
I also try to stay positive..."this too shall pass" and "you can do this, it's all planned out by really smart people".
Would I do it again? If everything grew back as it was? Yeah, even knowing the pain and the fiery discomfort when you sense the urine going around the catheter while draining out the durgical tube...no one's mentioned THAT before, LOL!
Swelling is still coming down, so all in all I am on a good path.
Yay! Another 48 hours and I'll be....LEAVING...on a jet plane...don't know when I'll be back again... ::) <--me singing...
Oh wait, I do know. Second surgery is scheduled for late May!
I will be down there in March with another old friend of ours from this Place. Let me know if you have carved your initials anywhere. Maybe there really ought to be a Wall of Honor "For those who have passed this way and given so much to be their true selves"
Attitude really is so important so, good for you for staying upbeat. Oh and that swelling makes you the new Ice Queen now huh?
Yes, Dr Ley will be doing it.
Tessa...tsk tsk tsk. *shakes head* There's more to erotica and sex than what's between the legs...withholding can be its own exquisite torment.
...Just ask the IRS! 8)
I'm pretty sure of who and I will be visiting them when they come down in March since I will be living in Phoenix starting this January and returning an apartment key that they allowed me to use when I would visit to go to the Endo. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: Tessa James on January 19, 2017, 06:07:37 PM
I will be down there in March with another old friend of ours from this Place. Let me know if you have carved your initials anywhere. Maybe there really ought to be a Wall of Honor "For those who have passed this way and given so much to be their true selves"
Attitude really is so important so, good for you for staying upbeat. Oh and that swelling makes you the new Ice Queen now huh?
Wow, leaving just a week post op :-) Drs Satterwhite & Wittenberg require follow-ups at 2 & 3 weeks post and rebel / fast healer I know myself to be, I plan to comply.
'Grats!! So glad for your fast recovery.
I am glad to hear things are going so well.
Don't push yourself too much but I like how you are doing.
Stay shiny.
Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
Ley and Meltzer keep us in there 9 nights, but that is it. After that they expect us to follow up with our own doctors unless something is wrong then we reach out to them. Hugs
Mariah
Quote from: SadieBlake on January 20, 2017, 12:21:25 AM
Wow, leaving just a week post op :-) Drs Satterwhite & Wittenberg require follow-ups at 2 & 3 weeks post and rebel / fast healer I know myself to be, I plan to comply.
'Grats!! So glad for your fast recovery.
Yay! Catheter is out!
Now as long as my Waste Elimination System #1 functions as intended, I won't be needing that damnable tube up my....
Oh, good morning peoples!
On to bigger and better things, like going home tomorrow! Yay!
WES #1 appears to be operating within acceptable parameters. ^-^
Incidentally, the swelling of the mons pubis and nearby internal areas seems to be the biggest source of pain and/or discomfort. Applying an ice pack works very well to reduce swelling as well as pain relief. Same thing with dilation: it's not the sutures, it's the swelling and/or the muscles within which are uncomfortable. So far, I'd give it a "2" most times.
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 20, 2017, 08:01:00 AM
Yay! Catheter is out!
Now as long as my Waste Elimination System #1 functions as intended, I won't be needing that damnable tube up my....
Oh, good morning peoples!
On to bigger and better things, like going home tomorrow! Yay!
Beth Andrea, thanks so much for blogging this experience. I love how your sense of humor and great attitude shows through in the writing, and I bet it will serve you well in the coming weeks of healing.
Thank you, and I hope the trip home is comfortable and uneventful!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Quote from: Michelle_P on January 20, 2017, 03:14:17 PM
Beth Andrea, thanks so much for blogging this experience. I love how your sense of humor and great attitude shows through in the writing, and I bet it will serve you well in the coming weeks of healing.
Thank you, and I hope the trip home is comfortable and uneventful!
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Thank you!
I'm eager to get home, but not looking forward to the 3 hour non-stop flight and hour drive home. I really feel for those who go to the Far East with long flights, layovers, etc.
Ok, so they took out the catheter this morning (about 14 hours ago). One of the things they want to see is if I'm able to relieve my bladder as needed.
I have voided a few times today, but it's always about 4 oz...normally I would need to go 2-3 times/day, each void providing between 20-30 oz of urine. Obviously output is far less than what I am used to...
I really have to push to get anything to cone out, and when I do it makes me feel very unconfortable due to the pressure, as it feels the urethra is being blocked by some swelling. They tell me the internal swelling is normal given the surgery, and will likely to go down on its own.
Yet they still have the "hat" in the toilet...which gives me pause in hoping I won't have to leave here with a catheter...
So it's not all rainbows and unicorns here in AZ. Speaking of which, it is raining HEAVILY here right now, I can hear it pounding on the outside.
Hang in there. They told me if I didn't put out a good amount within a certain amount of time it would go back in the same day it came out. So looks like they are giving you to the morning then before making a decision. I hope you don't leave with a catheter, but if you do the letter they inclose will deal with any issues you have with security and the plane ride. Hugs
Mariah
Yes it is wet outside and we have been waiting a long time for it. On the other hand, it's supposed to be clear and windy tomorrow so you should see the sun one more time.
When you go to the bathroom, spend 5-10 minutes on the stool to get as much as possible out. It will get better but when you have swelling, the flow can be pretty light for a while. I was able to empty my bladder once the flow started but it was months before I could do it quickly.
Thanks Dena, I'll try to have more patience when peeing. I hope it won't be months to quickly void...But what will be, will be, eh?
Quote from: Beth Andrea on January 20, 2017, 10:10:15 PM
Thanks Dena, I'll try to have more patience when peeing. I hope it won't be months to quickly void...But what will pee, will pee, eh?
Fixed your post
The nurses were informed of my piddler not piddling adequately, and after assessing things and informing me that they believed there was a scab from blood, and if they could break thru using a catheter, they would be able to open the urethra channel as well as drain the bladder. They then offered me a choice:
Re-install the Foley catheter (which would have to stay in place for 5 days; I would still go home tomorrow), or
Try a straight catheter (which resembles the small rubber tube found in the douching kit) and see if that'll work. If the scab was strong though, it was possible the cath couldn't be able to break thru, and I'd still have to get the Foley.
I chose the quickie, not the 5 day option. It was inserted after some effort on the nurses' part to break thru the scab, but the REAL discomfort was with the travel of the tube to the bladder...yes, it's as queasy and irritating as you might imagine.
It was over with very quickly. They drained 600+ ml of urine, checked everything again, then told me how to breathe deeply and release it slowly while they quickly slid out the catheter.
And now, I feel much better!
I have to say, the nurses and staff here are great! Very professional and understanding, eager to make an experience like this less frightening and worrisome.
:)
In hindsight, I did have some subtle indication that something was amiss:
The last couple of days I'd go out for a walk, but my upper crotch area was pretty delicate, and I had to walk slowly so as to not jar anything...by the time I got back I was pretty tired and would nap much of the rest of the day. I just thought that was normal for having had surgery.
I also began to dread the trip home...riding a car to the airport when I could barely bend let alone sit; then waiting to board (more sitting), flying (more sitting) and then the hour drive home.
And of course, the lack of appropriate amounts of urination...sure I could, but 100-200ml per visit? And that was by forcing it out? Sure, swelling, surgery, etc.
At the time I did not see these things as indicative of a problem. Hindsight is always 20/20, but hopefully someone will read this and if they find themselves with similar post-opissues, they'll press for a closer inspection of their new "bits" before re-cath'ing is mentioned.
A note after the urine flow was re-established and I had done my last dilation...suddenly I had a burst of energy, allowing me to tidy my room, pack for the trip home, make my bed, and finish things up...and even now, at 0005 my time, I'm still awake and munching on Sprite and potato chips (which reminds me...the last couple of days I'd also lost my appetite, but I didn't attribute that to the bladder issue; losing weight had always been a goal of mine but other things kept getting in the way...here at the hosp there's very little in the way of distractions, especially emotional/mental distractions so hey it's a good time to eat less, right?)
Not really, of course...but that was the rationale I used, rather than see it as an indicator of a bigger problem.
Hope this helps someone!
Lovely blog Hon.
Glad everything is going well, do they supply a do-nut cushion to sit on for your flight? Oh and ask for a wheel chair to take you on and off.
They supply one in the stuff you receive. Hugs
Mariah
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Thank you Cindy! And yes, I reseved my ticket with "needs wheelchair" and "please board first due to additional time needed."
The donut I got is, size and shape-wise, identical to those traveler neck pillows one can get. One big difference is the firmness of the cushioning...the neck pillow is much more firm, while the donut is a LOT softer (tiny styrofoam beads inside, maybe?). It also has a snap which secures the horseshoe shape into a complete circle.
Thank you too, Mariah! To me, you were like a pioneer-friend who returned (to Susan's) after being lost to the wild, and gave a very positive and encouraging blog about traveling thru GRS-land! (Others have as well, but you were helpful to me with my first attempt, even though I bailed...that encouragement I never forgot!)
Made it home, safe and sound! OMG it feels so good to be back home, with wife, dog, and our two cats!
Already dilated once, and had a strong, well-directed piddle...life is great!
Piddle well, close your legs and live life!!!
Hope you stay healthy, and get well soon.
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A week at home now...dilating 4x/day, where does the time go? Oh yeah... :-X :)
I barely flinch when I stand up now, getting into/out of the car is the most uncomfortable. The stitches, being in a pretty delicate place (the perianal area) create a tension that includes a bit of sharp pain...just enough to say "ouch!" You learn to place your butt where you just have to rotate your hips and be in the seat...I used to sit on the edge and slide in, but "oh! Ouch! Ouch!" so you learn how to sit without having that happen.
Being post-op for me, is better than tucking, even if it is visually similar. With tucking, if one presses on the area the male bits can be felt; without those bits one just feels your hand and...yourself. Nothing gets between.
I love it!
Nice to hear that you are doing so well !!!, well done. As you have just stated, you are in the early stage of healing and adjusting, life is so easy once that tenderness of a surgical site goes away. There are changes that our body goes through with surgery like this, but as you have already stated, possibly the best thing is the flat crotch and no more tucking. This makes things so simple, I remember the daily chore after everytime I went to the toilet, especially with long skirt or night dress, when I would hold the skirt/dress under my armpits whlie I tucked it all away. Another thing you will notice after healing and discomfort is gone, is the freedom you have down there with nothing there!!. Relaxing on the sofa before bed or having a lazy day at home,or even sleeping, you will end up with you legs in perhaps an unladylike position and you have nothing but comfortable panties, no pinching or something moving or coming out.
Everyday will get better and better as your body heals and adapts, so enjoy everychance you get. I have done some stupied things in my life, but having this surgery was possibly the best thing I have done, now 10 years and never looked back.
Thanks Shelley! Although I know it'll heal and be better, it doesn't help much with "the Now" of discomfort...but your words are encouraging and hopeful!
Just gotta take it one day at a time...
Speaking of which, tomorrow I'm scheduled to start using the second dilator. I'm doing pretty good with #1, so I figured I'd try it early by half-a-day....after all, it's only 1/8" (3mm) larger in diameter, so how hard could it be?
WOOF.
I think I need some tips on how to get it in...using the 2T I can get it *almost* to the end of the taper, but not far enough in to make it slide without resistance. After holding it for 5 mins as far in as I could get it, I tried #2.
I could not get it past the "muscle wall" at all. :( I could relax, tried extending legs, doing a "frog", etc but no go. Would raising my hips with a firm pillow work? Lowering my head so it's flat on the bed?
I had plenty of lube, tried changing angle of dilator penetration, "stirring the pot"...
He'p me! :-X
When you are starting a dilator, you may fold your legs up and spread your legs to locate your vagina. Place the dilator in the correct location starting it. You then need to straighten your legs and pull them close together leaving enough room for your hand to hold the dilator. It works best for me to sit up but bend my body at the waist. You also need to totally relax the lower portion of you body and if you are the least bit tense, you will have problems.
Dena pretty well covered it. You will get there, just takes time. Hugs
Mariah
Yay me! I got 2T in for 5, then 2 for 15!
I guess the lesson learned is to not force things, but just try and if it doesn't work this time, don't worry we'll try again next time! And the next, and the next, until it does work...I probably got a little lucky after just two tries, but...
Dayum! It just felt so dang BIG! I know I'll look back on this post after I get #3 in (and if I go with #4...woof!) and laugh at how "easy" it has become...
But for now...I'm happy to have broached a new barrier!
I've found it helps a lot if I take two Ibuprofen about 10 minutes before dilating for pain discomfort management. Two days in, using 2T and 2.
I have a pretty high pain tolerance (depending on where it is, and how sharp it is) but I found myself getting reluctant to dilate because of the discomfort. It is very similar to being constipated with a very large poo that won't come out...obviously I need to dilate, so that's why I gave in to OTC pain meds. (I still have the prescription stuff, but I always start small and if needed increase dosage or more potent meds)
4 weeks after surgery...a lot of the swelling has gone down, I'm finding several pokey things around the area (sutures coming out). Still doing 2T + 2, 4x/day, but getting tempted to try 3T + 3.
I've got a little bit of separation at the perineal "corner", about 1/2" (12mm) x 1/8"+. It makes a small "W" shape, but it's healthy and not infected or inflamed so I'll just keep tending it and using bacitracin.
Tip: When starting a vehicle with a clutch, BE SURE to depress the clutch before cranking the engine! The sudden lurch can surprise and cause a mite bit o'hurt!
Fwiw, I think my breasts have gotten a little larger, fuller, or something. Or maybe we are just imagining a more feminine effect. I like it though!
Getting out of bed and standing up from a chair no longer hurts. It used to, at first the whole crotch area then just the perineal area...but now it's ok.
Really not anything negative to mention...very happy about my new parts! Still 0 sex drive, but the "ah hell no!" response has given way to, "rh, not tonight." Things are getting better on that front!
After several days of trying, I'm finally getting 3T in to full depth (it's not marked nor intended to keep the vjj open, just to open the muscle enough to get #3 in) and the pain/discomfort is tolerable now.
At first I couldn't even get it in past the muscle (~3" depth), and when I could, it was in 1/2"-3/4" increments...and yowza it hurted! Each day I made a tiny bit more progress, and called it off after 2-3 minutes of pain/discomfort...hard to tell when it was pain or discomfort, it just depended on how tolerant I was that day. I have take Ibuprofen before, which helped with 2T+2, but didn't help as much with 3T. I have stronger stuff from the surgery, but haven't taken any of that.
It's amazing how much a 1/8" diameter increase can slow down progress! Today I actually was able, after doing 5 mins w/2T and 15 mins #2, to keep 3T in for the full 5 mins. Yay! Hopefully in the next couple days or so I'll take the 3 as well...but woof!
https://youtu.be/46AGWASyNgI (https://youtu.be/46AGWASyNgI)
The T dilators are not intended for full insertion. They are only intended to be inserted far enough to stretch open the outer muscles. This is because they are pointy and might damage the end of the vagina. Insertion should be about half way then follow it with the non tapered version for depth.
The T dilators are not "pointy," they have the same curvature as the next size down. They're not to be used in place of the regular dilators because the T ones are not marked for depth, and they are not full diameter for the whole length (which would not enlarge the entire vjj).
I appreciate your concern though. :)
A few days ago I stopped using 2T to pry open the vjj, and was just using 2 for 5 mins to open it enough to get 3T in (again for 5 mins), just so I could get 3 in for its 15 mins of fame.
Each day I'd reduce the time for the 2, until last night it was in for just a minute...so this morning I tried dilating starting with 3T. Got it in with just a couple of minutes of firm but slow pressure! Five of that, then 15 of 3, with very little discomfort. Some, but not enough to make me cringe.
So...just 4 months of twice a day, then once a day. Hopefully I'll adapt enough to not need 3T anymore. All of this has been TOTALLY worth it!
Question: Can anyone describe what necrosis looks like? I don't have any unusual skin/scarring issues, but I'm just curious, and want to know what to notice. (I'm not the type to jump into a dr's office for every little sniffle or red mark, but necrosis is something to catch early, methinks)
Three things you might see if thing are going normally.
1. Normal pinkish flesh
2. Bright red - proud flesh or granulation
3. White flesh which is dead flesh that isn't ready to peal off.
At this stage of the game everything should be converting to normal flesh. If it isn't and if it is growing, see a doctor now. I think you are far enough along now that necrosis isn't much of a risk if you don't have it already.
Thanks Dena!
Everything looks good at this point, have sensation etc. No worries! :)